Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Issues Safety Advisory for FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada, Mexico and the United States

Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Issues Safety Advisory for FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada, Mexico and the United States

Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a wide-area safety advisory in connection with the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Regarding public security, in Canada there are high incidences of pickpocketing and theft from vehicles targeting travelers. In Mexico, there are frequent cases of armed robbery using handguns and knives, as well as kidnappings targeting foreign nationals, and armed clashes between rival criminal organizations occur regularly. On April 8, Mexico raised the danger level for certain areas where criminal organizations are particularly active. In the United States as well, authorities warn that travelers may fall victim to violent crimes such as armed robbery and homicide using handguns and knives, as well as theft and fraud.

Concerning terrorism, in Europe and North America there have been frequent terrorist attacks targeting soft targets. In addition, following the February 28 attack on Iran, the risk of terrorism has increased within the United States. It has been reported that on March 1, a shooting at a bar in Austin, Texas resulted in 2 deaths and 14 injuries.

For immigration procedures, prior electronic travel authorization (ESTA, eTA) is required for the United States and Canada. In the United States, from May 7, 2025, in principle, REAL ID will be required for domestic flights and similar purposes for those aged 18 and over, and travelers who do not possess one will be required to carry a passport or other valid identification. At airports in Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara in Mexico, automated gates have been introduced, but they are available only for tourism purposes.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging those who plan to watch matches on site to frequently check instructions and notices from tournament organizers and local authorities, and to register with the “Tabi-Regi” (Travel Registration) system or submit a “Residency Registration” if staying long-term, as well as to take out overseas travel insurance.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be held from June 11 to July 19 in three countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The Japan national team’s group stage matches will be held as follows (all local time): the first match on June 14 at Dallas Stadium, the second match on June 20 at Estadio Monterrey, and the third match on June 25 at Dallas Stadium.

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